Inez Evans, IndyGo's "trailblazing" CEO, resigns
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IndyGo CEO Inez Evans has left the transit agency. Photo: Courtesy of IndyGo
IndyGo CEO Inez Evans is leaving after four-plus years on the job.
Why it matters: Evans took over the Indianapolis transit agency in July 2019, just weeks before the troubled Red Line launch, and she led IndyGo through a pandemic-induced ridership collapse and a barrage of state legislation aimed at killing parts of the city's bus rapid transit project.
Between the lines: IndyGo is making it clear Evans, whose resignation is official Dec. 14, is leaving on her own terms.
- That's a conspicuous difference in approach from Newfields, which has been mired in controversy since the unexplained departure of CEO Colette Pierce Burnette, who, like Evans, is a Black woman.
- IndyGo did not give a reason for Evans' departure, and she declined comment to Axios, but IndyGo heaped praise on her in a 780-word statement saying the board will "celebrate her tenure" at its Dec. 14 meeting.
What they're saying: "Evans' unwavering leadership and unparalleled expertise made her a true trailblazer. She will leave an indelible mark on Indianapolis," IndyGo board member Mary Ann Fagan said in the statement.
- "The IndyGo Board and the agency's leadership are committed to uplifting her during this time of transition."
- Mayor Joe Hogsett and City-County Council president Vop Osili also applauded Evans as a difference-maker for Indianapolis transit in IndyGo's statement.
What we're watching: Evans is leaving just before the start of the Indiana General Assembly session, a period in recent years that has come with existential risk for IndyGo as Republican lawmakers, who control the Legislature, have unsuccessfully sought major funding cuts.
Yes, but: IndyGo is appointing a Republican interim CEO, Jennifer Pyrz, who Indianapolis leaders consider well equipped to weather any legislative storm that might come.
- Pyrz, IndyGo's chief development officer, has overseen the Purple Line project.
What's next: IndyGo will search for a permanent CEO while finalizing plans for the east-west Blue Line, the third leg in the bus rapid transit system.
- The Blue Line project has been beset by construction cost increases.
The bottom line: IndyGo is praising Evans' tenure while navigating challenges that will fall on new leadership.